Sports centre plans woodchip biomass boiler to beat rising fuel costs

West Wight Sports Centre are inviting members of the public to take part in a public meeting to find out more about their proposal for a woodchip biomass boiler. Ed


A public consultation is being held to discuss the proposal to install a woodchip biomass boiler at the West Wight Sports Centre.

The annually increasing gas prices have made it essential to stabilise the significant annual cost of energy to heat the West Wight Sports Centre.

It is proposed to reduce the gas consumption at the West Wight Sports Centre by installing a 195kw woodchip biomass boiler. Providing both heat and hot water this will reduce the use of the existing gas boilers to brief periods of peak demand.

The supply of locally produced woodchip will provide stability to the on going cost of fuel. The cost per unit of energy will be reduced by a minimum of 30% when compared to gas.

Island Renewables will procure, install and fuel the following infrastructure:-

  • 195kw biomass boiler
  • Pipework
  • Accumulators
  • Boiler room and fuel store
  • Woodchip

The project has a 20 year duration after which a new boiler can be installed or the site returned to its previous condition.

Noise
The boiler will be located within a wooden clad building at the west of the sports centre. The boiler operates quietly. This combined with the walls of the boiler room, and the location ensures that sound from the boiler will not pose community annoyance.

Deliveries
Around 120t of woodchip will be required per annum. This will be delivered in 8 tonne lots.

The deliveries will take around 30 minutes and will occur between 8am and 6pm. Ash will be removed from the boiler when deliveries occur.

Emissions
The boiler has been tested to ISO 17025 standards and complies with the emission limits set by the Government.

The boilers automated combustion and control mechanism maximises efficiency and minimises emissions. The flue will be 600mm above the boiler house.

The consultation takes place on Friday 12th October between 4pm to 6pm at West Wight Sports Centre.